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William R.  Patchett

This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.

William R. Patchett

January 24, 1939 - May 10, 2019

It is with sadness, and great pride for a life well-lived, that we announce the passing of William R. (Bill) Patchett of Cobourg. Bill dedicated his life to caring for his extended family, his community, and the world at large, with his zest for life and love of people, his philanthropy and his extensive fund-raising. The family ask that you respect their privacy at this time, and hope that friends and supporters will take the time to give back to the community in Bill’s memory, to honour his legacy. Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com  

MESSAGES OF CONDOLENCE / DONATIONS

Valerie & Owen Nodell - June 4, 2019

We're so sorry for your loss. It was a great privledge to have known Bill, if only for a short time. My condolences to Delphine and the family.Valerie & Owen Nodell

Linda Hunter-Givelas - May 29, 2019

Dear Delphine and Wendy - please accept my heart-felt condolences for your loss of dear Bill. He was a community treasure who, with respect and humour, taught us all so much about Rotary, philanthropy, the value of family, and the glories of our amazing town. You are in my thoughts. Best regards, Linda.

Joan and Allan Ross - May 27, 2019

Delphine and family, thinking of you during this sad time. We will always think fondly of Bill for his generous spirit and big heart.

Gil and Marg Brocanier - May 25, 2019

As former Mayor of Cobourg, my wife and I had the opportunity to experience the wonders and workings of Bill Patchett more than most people. He was a tireless advocate and champion for more causes than I can count and devoted himself with great passion to everything he did in our community and even beyond the local community. Bill was a man of high energy, great integrity and compassion, but also had a great sense of humour that made it an enjoyable exchange of wit before opening your wallet to donate to whatever cause he was working on. Bill is one of the few people that I can truthfully call irreplaceable and is a great loss to the community.Gil and Marg Brocanier

Alma Draper - May 22, 2019

Dear Delphine and familyJohn and I send our condolences with the passing of Bill. A wonderful man. A true supporter of all things good. There will never be another man like him, as there will never be a Town Crier like Tom MacMillan. Both larger than life, giving their all to family and the community. Bill, such a brave man in his fight against cancer. He will be sorely missed by so many. We've always been thankful that we met him. I remember when I told Bill that I hated approaching places to ask for a silent auction gift. He said "If you don't ask, you won't get. If you do ask the worst they can say is no". I do my best to remember that. I hope you are coping, Delphine. Alma and John Draper

Ward & Penny Beebe - May 20, 2019

We extend condolences to your family on behalf of the staff at BEEBE'S.

Sandra MacCoubrey - May 19, 2019

Cobourg was blessed with two exceptional fundraisers. We enjoyed some of their valuable time. Thinking of youSandra

Cindy Dickson - May 19, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Ron and Doreen Hiscock - May 18, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Patrick McCoy - May 17, 2019

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Bill.Bill has left a memorable mark on this world, as well as on the lives of everyone he touched, leaving both in a better place. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.Farewell dear friend Bill - Until we meet again.Patrick & Cheryl McCoy

Stanley Feldman - May 16, 2019

Dear Patchett Family,I was sorry to read about the passing of Mr. Patchett; truly a unique and exemplary charitable member of our community.Please accept my sincere condolences.Sincerely,Stanley Feldman

Nancy Kerr - May 16, 2019

Deepest sympathy Delphine to you and your family. Bill will be sorely missed for all he gave to his family and his community.Take care.

Kenneth Rumball - May 16, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Rosanna Bouwmans - May 15, 2019

Expressing my deepest condolences to your family. I came to know Mr. Patchett as not only a patient at our amazing hospital, but as a man with an incredible spirit, drive and will. Not much was going to keep that man down. He reminded me a lot of my own father, who I sadly lost on May 10,2019. Strong, friendly, willing to give to others, never one to back down. Mr. Patchett will be missed, I was honoured to have met him. Stay strong, family....

Marie A Visser - May 15, 2019

Bill I cannot thank you enough for the influence you had on my boys Spenser and Connor. No mother could have asked for a better mentor as they navigated their teenage years in Rotary and their community. You were truly an inspiration! We will never forget your kind and generous heart and will continue to work hard towards building our communities as you did! Sending or condolences to your family in this very difficult time. Until we meet again ??

Pamela Jackson and Patrick Archer - May 15, 2019

Bill was indeed a force to be reckoned with, he did so much for Cobourg. It was a lucky day when the Patchetts decided to put down roots in this town.

Caroline & Brian McNamara - May 15, 2019

Bill was a wonderful man; always there to help others and always hands-on in whatever he did. Bill was a treasure to this community and will be sadly missed by all who benefited from his generous heart.

Leone Wilson and family - May 15, 2019

To Mr. Patchett's family: So sorry for you loss and our condolences to all Bill's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this sad time. He will be missed by all his friends, those who have worked for him and the entire community!The Wilson Family

Lars Henriksson - May 14, 2019

Bill's passing is a great loss for all of us, his family, friends and the society - local and around the world. It has been an honour and a pleasure to have Bill as a friend and leader. People like him are few, maybe almost non-existing.Carole and I have had the pleasure of working with and experiencing Bill and Delphine over the last couple of decades. He challenged us and lead us to be better Rotarians and humans. Thanks Bill for wonderful years.Our deepest sympathy and warm thoughts are with Delphine and the rest of the family. Thanks for allowing us to borrow Bill for all the good things he made us do. We will continue in his big footsteps.

Elaine Fish - May 14, 2019

I just want to say how sorry I was to read the news of Bill's passing. He was a wonderful man who did so much for the community. He offered me jobs, he supported my business, and I always looked forward to greeting him on the street and having chats with him. Rest in peace, he will be missed by many

Jerry McGee - May 14, 2019

Mr Patchett was a great man. He and Mrs P were second parents to me. They were so much more than neighbours...they were part of my family and I felt I was part of their family. My dad, Roy, and I offer our condolences to Mrs P and Billy. My memories of Mr P are cherished and will never be forgotten.

Scott Tuttle - May 14, 2019

Bill was a terrific guy, loved seeing him at the Best Western, Ajax and he would drop in to Bill Spencer to sell us flowers or let us know where to get them. I donate time now, but will make a little wager for him at the track next time!!

Ginette Plourde & Marie Rocheleau - May 14, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Rick and Christine Simon - May 14, 2019

We were so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He faced a terrible illness with courage and never stopped thinking about doing for others. He will be greatly missed by the community.

Rick and Christine Simon - May 14, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Beth/Paul Lawson - May 14, 2019

So very sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. A huge loss to your family and the whole community.

Bryan Marjoram - May 14, 2019

Dear Mrs. Patchett and Family,How can I possibly sum up Bill's accomplishments, both locally, provincially, and abroad? He was a larger than life figure in both the business world and with his numerous fundraising endeavours. He made dreams become a reality and always led by example. Cobourg is a better place because of the efforts of Bill. Now heaven will become a better place and it will be enriched by his selfless deeds and determination. He will be missed by his many friends and family. My hope is that he is resting comfortably, free of pain and suffering. My sincere condolences to you and your family during your period of mourning.BryanRIP Bill

Malcolm and Maureen Blackburn - May 14, 2019

Dear Delphine and Family,I was with great sadness and deep regret that we learned of Bill's passing.We feel honoured to have known Bill and to have worked with him on some of our favourite causes, especially Rotary.The consecutive years that we were President set a pattern of continuity that sadly hasn't been followed.I couldn't have asked for a more supportive, generous and hard-working colleague, even if it did cost me my hair!Bill was a very special man and will be missed.Our thoughts and condolences are with you at this time.Kindest regards,Malcolm and Maureen

Karen Noseworthy - May 14, 2019

My condolences to family and friends. Bill will be greatly missed but not forgotten for all he has done for our community. RIP

Paul McKeown - May 14, 2019

My condolences

Kim Goebel - May 14, 2019

My sincerest condolences. You are in my prayers. Bill will be greatly miss by a whole community that adore him.

Viji Leger - May 14, 2019

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Debbie & Bob McNeice "Woody" - May 13, 2019

So sorry to hear of Bills passing.He was a great guy . Bob "Woody" is not doing well he has Alzheimers.He often mentioned Bill . They had a really good relationship. when they were younger. Bob had allot of respect for Bill. He was held in high esteem. I also liked him very much and feel it is a great loss to loose him as the great husband and father he was and for all of the great work he did in his community. I know he will be missed by many .SadlyDebbie McNeice.

George Nancy Shaw - May 13, 2019

To Bill's family, George and I are very sorry to hear the news of losing Bill, he was a good friend to us in Mr. Grocer Days and beyond, we have fond memories together.George and Nancy Shaw

Sue Briggs - May 13, 2019

My condolences to the Patchett family and friends. The town of Cobourg will miss all the wonderful things he did our community. Cobourg will miss Bill Patchett.

Sue Briggs - May 13, 2019

My condolences to the Patchett family and friends. The town of Cobourg will miss all the wonderful things he did our community. Cobourg will miss Bill Patchett.

eric rankin - May 13, 2019

A very fine man of integrity, faith, loyalty to his community and a person who I got to know and admire. Helpful to all and joyful to be with.He helped my Shrine club and he really liked our christmas cakes.See you on the other side

Brian and Colette - May 13, 2019

We were so very sorry to hear such sad news. Bill was such a wonderful person in so many, many ways. Our love and best wishes to all of you at this most difficult time.

David Andrews - May 13, 2019

Dear Delphine and family,I know of no Rotarian, more dedicated than Bill. He was an inspiration to all who met him. I am blessed to call Bill my friend.My deeepest sympathy to you and the family.I miss his wise words, kind smile and huge determination, already.May Bill rest in peace with all of the Rotarians in heaven.Dave

David Sheppard - May 13, 2019

Just wanted to reach out and express my sadness to Bill's passing. Although I must confess I never new him well , I knew deep down he was a true example of how people once were. I would see him once a week or every other week for the last 3 or 4 years. We would talk and share stories or thoughts on how the world has changed the last 25 years. I'm 61, but was always so taken from his character and views of life. When we would cross paths it would be "How ya doin kid? And we would share a few minutes of real conversation. Bill was old school, nothing but class. The way he dressed, how he carried himself, his respect for others and how he treated people around him. Always time for someone, always something nice to say, even if he didnt know. I had nothing but the outmost respect for Bill. I knew nothing of the wonderful things I've now read and heard about since his passing, but not in the least surprised to hear how many people loved him .Truly a wonderful man, and an example of a time that once was.The world is a poorer place today without him.Will always remember him.My best and condolences to all his loved ones. MO (David Sheppard)

Craig and Linda Perkins - May 12, 2019

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope your memories of this incredible man will bring you comfort at this time of grief.

Jim Louttit - May 12, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Jim Louttit - May 12, 2019

Dear Delphine, my sincerest condolences to you and the family. Bill was an amazing person and it was my pleasure to know and work with him.

Duncan Conrad - May 12, 2019

Linda and I are so sorry to learn of Bill’s passing. He was just a wonderful man who gave so generously of himself . Even during the times when his health was at it’s worse he was always thinking of others. I was so proud to call him a friend and so h pay that Rotary provided us an opportunity to help make a difference in the world. Delphine, Wendy and family sending along a huge hug and lots of love.

Ted Amsden - May 12, 2019

Bill is one of my heroes. He will be truly missed. His civic commitment, community pride and willingness to do whatever was necessary to make a community or fund raising event successful, will always be with me as one of the best examples of citizenship.

Shirley Johnson - May 12, 2019

The community has lost a man with a great heart, love of his fellow man and generosity. We are the better for having known him and learned from him about caring. We will miss him dearly.

Connie Mealing - May 12, 2019

I am sad to hear of Bill's passing. My husband Ralph (Cobourg Wine Cellar) liked talking to him and had great respect for him. When I told Bill that Ralph was terminal he just shook his head and said too young.He and I joked about not telling Delphine when I saw him smoking a cigar or eating snack food.He will be missed not just for the tireless work he did but also for the kind man that he was.

Lou and Diane Rinaldi - May 12, 2019

Diane and I would like to express our condolences to the family. Thank you for sharing Bill with the community, we all live in a better place because of Bill. We are going to miss you big Guy. Rest In Peace

Leota Dewell - May 12, 2019

Mrs.Patchett and family.Please accept my condolences as you mourn your beloved husband and father.I didn’t know Bill well but I certainly heard lots of good things about him from Kelly.Sincerely Leota

Bruce, Lucille, Andrew and Nicole - May 12, 2019

Dear Delphine and Family.We are saddened to learn of Bill's passing and want to express our deepest condolences. We all have fond memories of Bill, particularly Bruce and the kids. Andrew and Nicole are very sad to have lost their Granddad whom they loved very much. He has not only left a lasting impact on so many for which his giving and fundraising has helped but more importantly has left a lasting impact on the hearts of his grandchildren. Bill will always have a special place in all of our hearts. We will miss him. Our love and support is being sent to all of you.Bruce, Lucille, Andrew and Nicole

Jeff Perkins - May 12, 2019

The legacy he created will live forever, in the good that he did, and the people that he inspired. It is a sad day, but filled with many, many happy memories. I'm here if you need anything at all.J

Peter Verleysen - May 12, 2019

Bill was a man I learned so much from! From being with him selling flowers to helping out whenever he fundraised by no frills. He always taught me and helped us all so much! I am glad the pain is over but I will miss you! Thank you Bill for all you have done! Peter Verleysen

Gina McBride - May 12, 2019

Dear Wendy and Family,I am very sorry for the loss of your father, Bill. He will always be remembered.Sincerely Yours,Gina McBride

Stephen Wilson - May 12, 2019

Bill was a great man. Sorry for your loss.

Joan & Don Diminie & family - May 12, 2019

We were saddened to learn of Bill passing on, he was a great person and an inspiration of all his fund raisings, he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this difficult time.

Heather Norris - May 12, 2019

You are in my thoughts at this incredibly difficult time. Compassionate and committed to improving the lives of everyone in Northumberland County, Bill is a pillar of the community that will be greatly missed. Rest peacefully knowing the world is a better place because of your love and unwavering support.

Erma Fraser - May 12, 2019

So sorry to learn of Bill’s passing, wonderful man and will certainly be missed

ben & doreen burd - May 12, 2019

Many condolences to Delphine and the family, s well as many thanks for allowing us to have known and liked Bill. Wonderful public man, we enjoyed his company in the brief encounters we had.Thanks for a wonderful life - memories live on!

kerry Yates - May 12, 2019

Our family would like to extend thoughts and prayers to everyone at this time. A great void will be left by a great man.

Karen Baker - May 11, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

Gayle Einarsson - May 11, 2019

Bill was a sweet soul who loved others and embraced life. He always had a smile and word of encouragement for me and I was blessed xo He would call me 'darling' most times he saw me even when it was months and years between our paths crossing. I did not see him often in the most recent years. I will remember doing reflexology for him and the conversations we shared. Wendy,from one daughter of a great man, to another daughter of a great man... I feel your pain and can understand the deep deep loss and hole in your life that now exists. I lost my dad 4 years ago. To all the family of Bill...God Bless you all and may you receive comfort from those you love in the coming days, weeks, months and even years. Very few words can help at a time such as this. I will lift Bill up in prayers and i will pray for your family today and many tomorrows. God cares about our pain and He will help you. with love and hugs, Gayle

Malcolm and Maureen Blackburn - May 11, 2019 DONATION

A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:

Charity of Your Choice

The Stephenson's - May 11, 2019

Our condolences to the Patchett family. Mr. Patchett was a wonderful person. Always a smile and a big hello. From the grocery store and Garden center to meals at the Woodlawn. He will always be remembered with such fondness. In this grievous time please, take some comfort in the many happy memories you share.Ken, Ruby, Melodie, and Melissa Stephenson (Cobourg Ont)

Deb Carde - May 11, 2019

My deepest condolences to the family. I worked with Bill yrs ago at No Frills, I will always remember the wonderful bbq he put on at his home for the staff. He was tough but fair and would listen to your opinions. Thanks for all you service to the community. You will be missed but remembered.

MIKE AND LINDA CAINE - May 11, 2019

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL AT THIS TIME . BILL WILL ALWAYS HAVE A SPECIAL PART IN MY HEART . TO HAVE BOTH OF YOU BEING A LANDLORD FRIEND I WILL CHERISH .IAM GLAD TO KNOW A GREAT MAN WHO HAS HELPED SO MANY PEOPLE AND ORGANIZATION IN COBOURG .

mike wilson - May 11, 2019

RIP BILL YOU WILL BE DEARLY MISSED